If you’re working in California, it’s important to know about workers’ compensation—often called “workers’ comp.” This program helps employees who get injured or sick because of their job. In 2025, there have been some changes to how much workers’ comp pays in California. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Workers’ compensation is like a safety net. If you get hurt or become ill because of your work, this program helps cover your medical bills and lost wages. It’s designed so that workers can get help without having to sue their employers.
Why Is This Important for Californians?
California has a lot of workers in different industries, from tech to agriculture. Accidents can happen in any job. Knowing how workers’ comp works ensures that if something goes wrong, you can get the support you need.
Changes in 2025: What You Need to Know
Starting January 1, 2025, there have been updates to the workers’ comp benefits in California:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Rates: If you’re completely unable to work for a while because of a work-related injury or illness, TTD benefits help replace your lost wages. In 2025:
- The minimum TTD rate increased from $242.86 to $252.03 per week.
- The maximum TTD rate went up from $1,619.15 to $1,680.29 per week.
- The minimum TTD rate increased from $242.86 to $252.03 per week.
These changes are tied to the State Average Weekly Wage (SAWW), which saw a 3.77588% increase from $1,642 to $1,704.
Understanding the Benefits
Here’s a simple way to understand how these benefits work:
- Temporary Disability Benefits: If you’re temporarily unable to do your job, you can receive payments to help cover your lost wages. Generally, this is about two-thirds of your average weekly earnings, but it won’t be less than $252.03 or more than $1,680.29 per week in 2025.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: If your injury leads to lasting effects that affect your ability to work, you might be eligible for permanent disability benefits. The amount depends on the severity of your disability, your age, occupation, and other factors.
- Medical Treatment: Workers’ comp covers medical expenses related to your work injury or illness. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and necessary equipment.
- Mileage Reimbursement: If you need to travel for medical appointments related to your injury, you can get reimbursed for your travel expenses. In 2025, the reimbursement rate increased to 70 cents per mile.
- Death Benefits: If a worker dies due to a work-related injury or illness, their dependents may receive death benefits, including payments and coverage for burial expenses.
Practical Example
Imagine you’re a construction worker in California earning $1,200 per week. If you injure your back on the job and can’t work for a while:
- You’d receive temporary disability benefits amounting to two-thirds of your weekly wage, which is about $800 per week.
- Since $800 is between the minimum and maximum TTD rates for 2025, you’d receive that amount until you’re able to return to work or reach the maximum benefit period.
Staying Informed
It’s crucial to stay updated on workers’ comp benefits because they can change. Knowing your rights ensures you get the support you need if you’re injured on the job.
Conclusion
Workers’ compensation is there to help California employees during tough times after a work-related injury or illness. With the updates in 2025, it’s more important than ever to understand what you’re entitled to. If you’re ever in doubt, consider reaching out to a workers’ compensation attorney or the California Division of Workers’ Compensation for guidance.
Remember, your health and well-being are paramount. Stay informed, stay safe, and know that support is available when you need it.
